Mandy Patinkin - Review of Kidults

Patinkin's Playground

Review of "Kidults"
Nonesuch Records, 2001

By TDC

August 14, 2001
The Mandy Patinkin Showcase

Mandy Patinkin's latest solo album, titled "Kidults," is a fine collection of lullabies, fairy tales, and musical satire. Intended to appeal both to children and to the kid that lives in the heart of every adult, the album is, by turns, playful and nostalgic. Patinkin is a deft vocal craftsman and a Tony and Emmy Award-winning actor. He puts his theatrical talents to good use on selections such as "A Tisket, A Tasket," "The King's New Clothes," "The Ugly Duckling," and "If I Only Had A Brain." Patinkin is an animated storyteller, bringing children's tales to life through song and mirth. In "A Tisket, A Tasket," he playacts the roles of a child whose basket is stolen, and of a Dragnet-inspired detective assigned to investigate. By the end of "If I Only Had a Brain," Patinkin transforms himself into the Cowardly Lion, sighing with resignation and longing to find his "nerve".

At times (such as on "Holiday for Strings"), Patinkin seems like a child turned loose on a musical playground, infusing songs with his own brand of whimsy and manic enthusiasm. It seems fitting that this performer, who has been called "over-the-top" and spoofed for being "Somewhat Overindulgent," celebrates risk-taking and nonconformity in a medley combining "Everybody Says Don't" with "The King's New Clothes." The album is especially noteworthy for its clever medleys. The amusing "Singing in the Bathtub" transitions nicely into "Singing in the Rain," and back again. The "School Days Medley," which reflects on the passage of time, wistfully weaves together "Inchworm", "School Days" and Jim Croce's "Time In A Bottle." Also, Patinkin performs a touching rendition of Harry Chapin's "Cat's in the Cradle," preceded by a lovely lullaby, "Japanese Sandman."

On "April in Fairbanks," Patinkin sings a farcical ode to Alaska. "Not While I'm Around," a true musical gem, brings out the protective father in Patinkin to chase away demons. Patinkin humorously performs vocal acrobatics as he enunciates his way through "The Minute Waltz."

Kristin Chenoweth, whose voice blends well with Patinkin's, joins in on three album tracks, including "Soon It's Gonna Rain" from The Fantasticks. The album's orchestrations, arranged by Paul Ford and conducted by Eric Stern, are positively delightful.

Kidults is due in stores on September 4. Mandy Patinkin will launch a new solo concert tour to promote the album, beginning September 10 at the Neil Simon Theater in New York City.